Rhea M. Ike

Rhea M. Ike, beloved matriarch, legendary “Granny,” and fierce lifelong opponent of television, passed away peacefully on December 25, 2025, at Geneva General Hospital with her favorite granddaughter by her side, after a long and determined battle with what she casually referred to as the “old age bug.” She was 82 — and yes, she would absolutely want you to know that.

Born on November 23, 1943, in Lodi, New York, Rhea grew up among the rolling hills and deep lakes of the Finger Lakes region — a place she loved dearly and never quite forgave for it's winters.

Rhea lived life entirely on her own terms, with a blend of independence, sharp humor, and unwavering loyalty. She loved her people fiercely, but her greatest joy — by far — was her four “littles”: Adaline Marie, Vivian Grace, Rhett James, and Wyatt David. They were the center of her universe, and she made sure everyone knew it.

A devoted reader, Rhea firmly believed that television was a waste of perfectly good reading time. She could often be found with a book in her right hand, a glass of dry Riesling in her left, and absolutely no intention of being interrupted. She favored edgy paperbacks, strong opinions, and quiet moments — preferably all at once. If you were loved by her, you knew it. And if she had something to say, well… you definitely knew that too.

Throughout her life, Rhea wore many titles, but none more proudly than “Granny.” It was a role she took seriously, performed exceptionally well, and never retired from.

As we remember Rhea, we celebrate a life well lived — full of laughter, love, loyalty, and simple pleasures done exactly her way. She will be deeply missed, fondly remembered, and often quoted.

Rhea is survived by her only child, Tina (Robert) MacCheyne; her grandson, Scott (Katie) MacCheyne; and her granddaughter, Alyssa (Kevin) MacCheyne and of course her “Littles”— all of whom were fiercely loved and regularly kept in line. She is also survived by three of her twelve siblings: Della (Paul), Nelson, Nick Ike, and RC Ike. In true Ike fashion, she leaves behind well over a hundred nieces and nephews who somehow all managed to believe they were her favorite — and who will continue to tell stories, laugh loudly, and argue passionately in her honor.

A Celebration of Life for Rhea will be held on Saturday, January 10, 2026, at the Trumansburg American Legion, 4431 E. Seneca Road, Trumansburg, from 1:00–4:00 p.m. A brief remembrance, prayer, and shared stories will begin promptly at 1:15 p.m., so please arrive by then — punctuality mattered to her, and this part would not be optional. Guests are encouraged to bring a favorite Rhea story to share; she appreciated honesty, a sharp point, and getting to the good part. Food will be served, stories will be told, and staying awhile is encouraged.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Pathway Home of the Finger Lakes, PO Box 516 Seneca Falls, NY 13148 www.pathwayhome.org/donations/honorof1.htm OR Ontario-Yates Hospice: www.urmc.rochester.edu/home-care/giving/how-to-give